Macrobiotics~ The Philosophical Diet |
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The essence of macrobiotics is to "eat" within the natural order of the universe. In contrast to our modern techniques of food cultivation and processing which makes foreign foods and manufactured foods available at all times, Macrobiotics teachings prescribe foods that are native to one's own region and climate. The late George Ohsawa , founder of the movement, propounded the view that we eat in order to keep our body in balance and harmony. Therefore, the foods we choose should be related to our biological needs, well-being, activity, and environment. The macrobiotic theory is based on the belief that the food animal is an unnecessary intermediary between our bodies and the basic source of food. The animal eats our essential food nutrients for us; by seeking to ingest these elements through animal products, we risk receiving them in an altered, unbalanced form. In addition, the animal flesh contains toxic wastes and bacteria associated with it's decomposition. So, Macrobiotics aim to eat as few animal foods as possible, and then only in the lowest forms- such as fish, game and eggs. The Macrobiotic Diet is based on a mixed vegetarian diet of grains, vegetables, beans and nuts. With the consumption of the foods in their natural forms. Also this philosophy way of eating is based on methods of food preparation called Ying Yang of the food, the time of year, seasonings, and other variables. All environmental factors are considered when preparing food. In other words, food on one side must balance with the opposite side. In terms of mineral elements, Yin represents foods rich in potassium, while Yang foods are high in sodium. To achieve this balance, ten different dietary patterns are proposed, ranging from the lowest level, 3, which consists of : + 10% cereal + 30 % vegetables +10 % soup +30 % animal products +15 % salad and fruit + 5 % dessert to the highest level of 7, a diet of 100 % grain. Liquid intake, particularly with meals, is discouraged. To follow the macrobiotic way of life, a novice is expected to start at the lowest level and progress toward level 7 until the desired state of well-being is attained. The Macrobiotic Diet
requires careful study and understanding and should not be undertaken
casually. |
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